The Stratford girls cross-country team was off to a good start this season. According to coach Jason Reid, the Lady Spartans took third place overall in the Woodlands Friday Night Lights meet on September 2. Among top finishers for the Spartans were Shannon Linderman (3rd), Jacinda Layden (9th), and Reagan Uherek (14th).

Participating in the Rice Invitational on September 9, the Spartans did not see same results. With possibly a little more competition and severe weather conditions, the girls took ninth place overall. Among top finishers for the Spartans were Shannon Linderman who finished No. 30 with a time of 13 minutes 2 seconds and Jacinta Leyden who finished No. 36 with a time of 13 minutes 8 seconds.

Jacinda Layden, a freshman running cross-country for her first time, gathers inspiration from older sister, Carlene, who is a junior in her second cross-country season.

“The competition creates some bit of sibling rivalry, but at the same time pushes us both to work harder,” Carlene said in agreement with her sister.

Coach Jason Reid is fortunate to have a talented duo.

“Jacinda finished in ninth place at the Woodlands Invitational last weekend and has become one of the team’s top runners,” Reid said.

The sisters look forward to running together this season, but also look forward to the spring athletic season where both girls will compete on the Lady Spartans tennis team.